This copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar sandwich is an irresistible slow-cooker recipe that rivals the original. Tender shredded chuck roast simmers in a savory sauce, then is piled onto an onion roll and finished with warm cheddar cheese sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings.
If you enjoy Arby’s Beef & Cheddar but prefer a homemade version with real ingredients, this recipe is for you. A chuck roast cooks low and slow until it’s fall-apart tender, absorbing a tangy, savory sauce. The meat is shredded and returned to its cooking juices so every bite stays juicy and flavorful. Serve the beef on soft onion buns topped with warm cheddar cheese sauce and a drizzle of Arby’s-style sauce for the classic combination of savory, tangy, and cheesy. Because it’s made in a slow cooker, it’s hands-off and fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma while it cooks.
This homemade version is straightforward and adaptable. Season the roast, add Worcestershire and Arby’s-style sauce, then let the slow cooker do the rest. When the roast is tender, shred it and fold the meat into the sauce so the flavors meld. Heat the cheese sauce before serving so it’s smooth and pourable. Toast your onion buns, build the sandwiches, and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that’s a step above fast food.
Why You’ll Love This Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Copycat Recipe
• A homemade, fresher alternative to the fast-food version made with real ingredients.
• Minimal hands-on time thanks to the slow cooker—set it and forget it.
• The chuck roast becomes tender, juicy, and richly flavored.
• Easily customized with your favorite buns, extra sauce, or toppings.
• Makes a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal for the whole family.
Ingredients For Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwich Recipe
2–3 lb chuck roast
2 tsp dried minced onion
1 tsp steak seasoning
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 cups Arby’s-style sauce, plus more for topping
1 cup cheddar cheese sauce
6 onion buns, or your preferred rolls
How to Make a Homemade Beef & Cheddar Sandwich
Step 1: Spray a slow cooker with nonstick spray and place the chuck roast in the bottom.
Step 2: Sprinkle the dried minced onion and steak seasoning evenly over the roast.
Step 3: Pour the Worcestershire sauce and Arby’s-style sauce over the roast so the meat is well coated.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the roast is fork-tender.
Step 5: Remove the roast, shred the meat with two forks, and stir the shredded beef back into the cooking juices so it soaks up the sauce.
Step 6: Warm the cheddar cheese sauce until smooth. Toast the onion buns, pile on the shredded beef, spoon over cheese sauce, and add extra Arby’s-style sauce if you like. Serve immediately.
What to Serve with Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar
Classic pairings include curly fries for an authentic Arby’s experience. Other great sides are smashed garlic-parmesan potatoes, scalloped potatoes, macaroni salad, a simple green salad, chips, or fresh fruit. Choose sides to balance the rich, savory sandwich—crispy, salty, or bright and fresh options all work well.
Popular Substitutions & Additions
This recipe is flexible. If you don’t have chuck roast, use rump roast or another braising cut. In a pinch, deli-style roast beef can be warmed in the sauce on the stovetop. Swap onion buns for brioche, pretzel rolls, or kaiser rolls. Add texture with crispy fried onions or pickles, and add heat with hot sauce or pickled jalapeños. For dairy-free options, use a plant-based cheddar-style sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Leftover shredded beef stores well. Cool completely, then transfer the beef and its sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep the cheddar sauce and buns separate and assemble sandwiches just before serving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use deli roast beef instead of a chuck roast?
Yes. Deli roast beef is a good shortcut when you’re short on time—simply warm it in the sauce on the stovetop until heated through.
What kind of cheese sauce should I use?
Any smooth cheddar cheese sauce works—store-bought, homemade, or a simple mixture of shredded cheddar melted with a little milk and butter on the stove.
Can I cook the beef in the oven or Instant Pot instead?
Absolutely. For oven braising, cover the roast and bake at 300°F for 3–4 hours until tender. In an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 60–70 minutes and allow natural release.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes. Freeze the cooked shredded beef with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Other Sandwich Recipes You’ll Love
- Copycat Grinders Italian Sandwich
- Quick & Easy French Dip Sandwiches
- Slow-Cooker Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches
Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich
April King
Ingredients
- 2–3 lb. chuck roast
- 2 tsp. dried minced onion
- 1 tsp. steak seasoning
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups Arby’s-style sauce, plus more for topping
- 1 cup cheddar cheese sauce
- 6 onion buns, or preferred bun
Instructions
- Spray a slow cooker with nonstick spray and place the roast in the bottom.
- Sprinkle the dried minced onion and steak seasoning over the roast.
- Pour the Worcestershire sauce and Arby’s-style sauce evenly over the roast.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the roast is very tender.
- Remove the roast, shred the meat, then stir the shredded beef back into the juices and sauce.
- Heat the cheddar cheese sauce until smooth. Pile beef onto toasted onion rolls, top with cheese sauce and extra Arby’s-style sauce if desired. Serve and enjoy.